Here's A Simple 3 Step Skincare Routine For Men
In order to create a suitable skincare routine, it helps to have a basic understanding of how your skin works and also how to identify your skin type.
Looking after your skin doesn't have to be a daunting task. You don’t need an elaborate routine that's going to make you late for work every morning. Just a basic, 5-minute routine and being mindful of a few key elements in your lifestyle will give long-lasting results.
A regular regime can combat skin issues like dryness, breakouts, shaving irritations, and the signs of aging.
Plus, self-care raises your self-esteem!
Here are 3 simple steps to create a basic skincare routine:
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1. Cleanser/Face Wash
The first step of your skincare routine is the most important.
Properly cleansing your face —especially at the end of your day, removes the buildup of pollutants, microbes, dirt, and other debris like oils, sweat, and dead skin cells from your pores. It creates a “clean slate” allowing the rest of your skincare products to permeate the skin.
When purchasing your cleanser make sure to get clean formulations, free from alcohol and synthetic ingredients.
Face Wash Tips:
DON'T WASH YOUR FACE WITH SHOWER GEL!
Avoid harsh alcohols & surfactants like Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS), or Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES). These synthetic ingredients strip the lipids (fats) from your skin leaving it feeling dry and tight after washing! Find out more about damaging face wash ingredients
Technique:
The way you wash your face actually matters. I know you may want to rush through the cleansing process, especially after a long day. But, I can't stress enough how important cleansing is for anti-aging. You are wasting your time and money on expensive serums and creams if you can't be bothered to clean your face properly! This step should be performed for at least 1-2 minutes.
Use circular motions to massage your face wash/cleanser into your face and neck for 1-2 mins. Rinse 2-3 times with warm water and a cotton face cloth.
2. Toner
Toner is another important step in the skincare routine that is often overlooked. Here's how it can improve your skincare results:
Purifying - removing excess cleanser, grease, dirt from pores
Hydrating/Calming - some toners contain hydrating and soothing ingredients like hyaluronic acid & aloe vera
Control Excess Oil/Breakouts - toners that contain exfoliating acids like salicylic acid can help clear up blackheads and balance oil production
Pore Refining/pH Balancing - toners can contain natural astringent ingredients such as witch hazel can help to tighten open pores and balance the skin's pH levels
Toners can also be exfoliating. These types of toners are especially good for men, as with regular use AHAs can greatly reduce shaving issues like bumps and ingrown hairs. Glycolic Acid-based toners should only be used at bedtime because Hydroxy Acids increase the skin's sensitivity to the sun. Make sure you use a mineral sunscreen to avoid sun damage.
ALPHA-HYDROXY ACIDS (AHAs)
Glycolic Acid, Malic Acid, and Lactic Acid are exfoliating acids that resurface the skin by dissolving the ‘glue’ that holds dead skin cells together. This process encourages the skin's natural shedding process, increasing new cell growth and stimulating collagen production.
BETA-HYDROXY ACIDS (BHAs)
Salicylic Acid is used to treat oily/acne-prone skin because it penetrates deeper into the skin and is an oil-loving acid. This means it can cut through the grime & grease inside blocked pores, dissolving oil and dead skin cells that cause acne..
3. Moisturiser
Moisturizers should be high in antioxidants to protect your skin from environmental pollution and UV rays. They also help to prevent dehydration through a process known as trans-epidermal water loss. Look fr these ingredients in your moisturizer:
Green Tea Extract
Niacinamide
Resveratrol
Squalane
Don't forget to apply mineral sunscreen!
NEED SKINCARE HELP?
I make sense of skincare. Together we create better routines and lifestyle habits to empower you to feel more confident and in charge. I want everyone to be able to have a Skin Coach in their life, which is why I’ve designed 3 Skin Coaching Plans to fit any budget.
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